In a strategic move to promote rural development, improve agricultural productivity, and enhance sustainable energy practices, the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has launched the distribution of 3,000 energy-saving cooking stoves and 193 motorcycles to communities across the state. These items, part of the World Bank-backed ACReSAL (Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape) project, are aimed at driving positive change in the state’s agricultural sector and enhancing the livelihoods of its residents.
However a Government House statement by the Press Secretary of Kwara ACReSAL, Taiwo Okanlawon, disclosed this to the press on Saturday.
The launch ceremony, which took place on Thursday in Ilorin, was attended by key officials, including the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. John Bello, who represented the Governor. The initiative, according to the Governor, is designed not only to improve the local economy but also to support women by providing them with environmentally friendly stoves that save energy and reduce indoor air pollution.
ACReSAL, implemented under the collaborative efforts of the Ministries of Environment, Water Resources, and Agriculture, is a response to the growing climatic challenges facing Kwara’s semi-arid regions. By providing solutions such as energy-efficient stoves and motorcycles for agricultural agents, the project addresses key environmental and agricultural challenges while also ensuring that rural communities gain access to better services.
Governor AbdulRazaq emphasized that the initiative is part of a larger government strategy to improve living standards, particularly in rural areas. He highlighted the importance of involving all stakeholders—community leaders, local government officials, and non-governmental organizations—to ensure the success and sustainability of these interventions. "The distribution of these stoves and motorcycles is a significant step towards fostering economic growth and creating a more sustainable and productive agricultural sector," said AbdulRazaq. "We are committed to implementing people-centered initiatives that will positively impact our communities."
The energy-saving stoves, designed to reduce fuel consumption and cooking time, are expected to have a profound impact on women in the state, many of whom are responsible for household energy management. These stoves are not just tools for daily use, but represent a broader effort to promote environmental sustainability and reduce deforestation, as they require less firewood.
Meanwhile, the 193 motorcycles distributed to agricultural extension agents will serve as crucial tools for enhancing communication between farmers and extension services. In her speech, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Oloruntoyosi Thomas, described the motorcycles as "vital lifelines" for agricultural agents who can now reach even the most remote farmers more efficiently. "These motorcycles will help bring new farming techniques and timely support to farmers across the state, contributing to improved agricultural practices and productivity," Thomas noted.
Alhaji Samsudeen Aregbe, the State Project Coordinator for ACReSAL, also commended the Governor for his leadership in ensuring that the state meets its obligations for counterpart funding. This, Aregbe explained, has paved the way for Kwara to receive significant benefits from the World Bank-supported project, including the provision of energy-saving stoves and motorcycles. He assured that the items would be distributed fairly across all 16 local government areas, ensuring that the benefits are felt statewide.
